Contents, Introduction, Before connecting

Contents
Introduction	2
Before connecting	2
Limited warranty	3
Safety precautions	3
Important safety instructions	4
Rear panel connections	5
Front panel controls	6
Remote control	7
Front panel display	8
Loudspeaker connections	8
Analog audio connections	9
Digital audio connections	9
Aerial connections	9
Front Input connections	9
Video connections	10
HDMI connections	10
5.1/6.1 Direct In.. .....................................................................................11
6.1 Preamp Out	11
540R v3 setup	12
1. Speaker configuration	12
2. Speaker delay	13
3. Level calibration	14
4. Source setup	14
5. Assigning video sources	15
Surround sound modes	16
Operating instructions	17-20
Decode modes - 5.1 speaker setup	18
Decode modes - 6.1 speaker setup	19
Audio split mode	21
Bass/Treble configuration	21
Subwoofer setup	21
Advanced bass management	21
OSD setup	22
Custom installation use	22
Reset/Back-up memory	22
Troubleshooting	23
Technical specifications	23

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This guide is designed to make installing and using this product as easy as possible. Information in this document has been carefully checked for accuracy at the time of printing; however, Cambridge Audio's policy is one of continuous improvement, therefore design and specifications are subject to change without prior notice. If you notice any errors please feel free to email us at: support@cambridgeaudio.com

This document contains proprietary information protected by copyright. All rights are reserved. No part of this manual may be reproduced by any mechanical, electronic or other means, in any form, without prior written permission of the manufacturer. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

“Dolby”, “Pro Logic”, “Surround EX” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

“DTS”, “DTS Digital Surround”, “DTS-ES” and “Neo:6” are trademarks of Digital Theater Systems, Inc.

HDMI, the HDMI logo and High-Definition Multimedia Interface are trademarks or registered trademarks of HDMI Licensing LLC.

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing this Cambridge Audio Azur range AV Receiver. We hope that you enjoy many years of pleasure from it.

The new 540R v3 is designed for excellent multi-channel surround- sound performance without compromising on music reproduction.

As such the six fully discrete audiophile grade amplifiers are kept as separate as possible from the processing and input stages. A large power supply with low flux toroidal transformer and careful design of the audio stages ensure that the 540R v3 can reproduce the dynamics and scale required for modern movie soundtracks whilst also being able to reproduce a genuinely musical performance with either stereo or multi- channel music sources.

For the new v3 model we have made several enhancements. We have added 2 in 1 out HDMI switching, tweaked the amplifier designs for lower distortion, added a Stereo + Sub mode (digitally created sub) and post-processing modes with PLII to allow creation of a 6.1 output from 2.0/5.1 DD or DTS material.

All video inputs are now fully freely assignable to any source, making the unit very flexible despite its relatively small size and socket count.

A new Advanced Bass Management feature allows separate crossovers and trims for PLII/Neo, DD/DTS and Stereo + Sub modes, plus a Bass Augment function allows the front speakers to remain Large whilst also sending front left and right bass to the subwoofer.

A full RS232 control protocol has been implemented and IR Emitter In added making it easy to integrate the 540R v3 into a Custom Install situation.

As usual all this proprietary engineering is housed within our acoustically damped chassis with an Azur navigator remote control supplied

Your 540R v3 can only be as good as the system it is connected to. Please do not compromise on your partnering equipment. Naturally we particularly recommend equipment from the Cambridge Audio Azur range which includes CD and DVD players which have been designed to the same exacting standards as this product. Your dealer can also supply excellent quality Cambridge Audio interconnects to ensure your system realises its full potential.

Thank you for taking the time to read this manual, we do recommend you keep it for future reference.

Matthew Bramble,

Cambridge Audio Technical Director and the AV Receiver design team

Before connecting

The process of setting up the 540R v3 is first to make all the connections to your speakers and source equipment and then set the unit up via its On-Screen Display (OSD), as there are various settings and adjustments that need to be made before the 540R v3 can be used.

However before you actually decide which connections to make or perform any adjustments it is strongly advised that you read through the ‘540R v3 setup’ section of this manual first, starting on page 12.

A lot of explanation is included that will help you to choose the right connection types for both your sources and TV.

540R V3 specifications

The Cambridge Audio 540R V3 is a high-quality AV receiver that has made a name for itself in the realm of home entertainment. Renowned for its solid performance and formidable features, the 540R V3 delivers an immersive audio-visual experience for home cinema enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

One of the standout characteristics of the 540R V3 is its build quality. The receiver boasts a sturdy chassis that not only enhances durability but also helps in reducing vibration and resonance. This attention to structural integrity ensures that the performance remains consistent and delivers clear, dynamic sound.

The 540R V3 is equipped with a powerful 5.1 channel amplification system that provides ample power to drive a variety of speaker configurations. With a total power output of 75 watts per channel, it can easily accommodate both small and large room setups. The unit supports multiple surround sound formats, including Dolby Digital and DTS, which ensures that users can enjoy a complete surround sound experience.

Another significant feature of the 540R V3 is its extensive connectivity options. The receiver includes multiple HDMI inputs, allowing for seamless connection to high-definition sources such as Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and streaming devices. Additionally, it offers composite and component video inputs, ensuring compatibility with legacy equipment.

The 540R V3 incorporates advanced digital processing technology to enhance audio quality. The built-in digital-to-analog converters (DACs) work to optimize the quality of sound and maintain signal integrity, which is essential for delivering detailed soundstage and clear dialogue.

For music aficionados, the 540R V3 also incorporates various audio enhancements such as tone controls and a dedicated headphone output. This versatility allows for personalized audio tuning according to listener preferences.

Furthermore, the receiver features an intuitive user interface, making it easy for users to navigate through various settings and configurations. The remote control is user-friendly, providing access to all functionalities without hassle.

In summary, the Cambridge Audio 540R V3 stands out as a well-rounded AV receiver that combines solid construction, powerful amplification, and advanced connectivity. Its ability to provide a rich home cinema experience, coupled with its robust audio features, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking quality and reliability in their audio-visual setup. With its blend of performance and user-friendly design, the 540R V3 remains a favorite among both casual listeners and audiophiles.